Sarah Stars In Solid Start

SMOBL opened the campaign with a home fixture against Devizes, having had a really positive pre season. With both sides missing numbers through holidays and such like, neither side knew what to expect and this led to quite a cagey opening 10 minutes. SMOBL then began to get on top and they opened the scoring when debutant Ria Jefferson-Gleed finished off some good handling out wide. Devizes then came back well and following one missed penalty attempt, they cut the deficit to 5-3 with a second successful penalty shot at goal. This kick started the ladies and from here they took control of the game. Elaine Hughes became the second Mary's debutant to score when she spotted a gap following some very good continuity to run in under the sticks. Conversion added, 12-3. Pressure kept up on Devizes and SMOBL looked to go again. two tries in 5 minutes at the end of the half by the impressive Joanna Smith, and another conversion from Jade 'Gambo' Gamlin seeing St Mary's out to a well deserved 24-3 lead at half time. Second half under way and Mary's starting where they left off when flanker Sarah Barker finished off another excellent set of phases to secure the bonus point. Devizes could easily have crumbled at this point, but the refused to do so and through some determined defence and strong running, in particular from their excellent No8 and 15, they stifled the home side. With 7 minutes to go their defence was finally breached was skipper Sophie Williams took a quick tap penalty and made great ground, only to be stopped short of the line. An excellent clear out from the support and some slick handling from the backs seeing Smith cross for her hat-trick. She added the conversion herself to take the score out to 36-3. Devizes came charging back and despite a great turnover by the home side, were able to re-gather possession and score. SMOBL, however would have the last word when they quickly regathered possession from the restart before the ball was moved wide to Chloe Tucker who was able to out pace the cover to score in the corner. Gambo slotted excellently from the touchline to see the final score 43-8. This was a really positive start for the group, with many players starting in unfamiliar positions and Ria Jefferson-Gleed, Elaine Hughes and Ellen O'Sullivan all making club debuts. Lots to be positive about, Sophie Williams, Abigail Carlin and Jade Gamlin working really well in the pack, Joanna Smith and all the debutants shining in the backs. Player of the Match this week was Sarah Barker who was outstanding in the loose, regularly turning over opposition ball and working her socks off all over the pitch. The win is dedicated to Vicky Pointer who sadly suffered a broken ankle during pre season, but was there to support the team. #ownership